Hockey: Seven players in rebel league row

Hockey: Seven players in rebel league row

Authorities order seven players to explain their appearance in a rebel league in India.

KARACHI: Pakistan hockey authorities Friday ordered seven players to explain their appearance in a rebel league in India, casting doubt over their participation in the London Olympics in three months’ time.

Seven Pakistani players including former captains Shakeel Abbasi and Rehan Butt featured in the March-April World Hockey League, which was not approved by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) said the players have been summoned before a disciplinary committee on May 7.

“Seven Pakistani players featured in the “World Hockey Series”, which was played in India. The FIH declared the event as unsanctioned so these players have violated the constitution of PHF and FIH,” a PHF release said.